Reviewed by CalcMulti Editorial Team·Last updated: ·← Precious Metals Hub
The gold karat calculator tells you exactly how much pure gold is in any piece of jewellery, coin, or bar — and what that pure gold content is worth at today's spot price. Karat (abbreviated "K" or "kt" in the US/UK, "carat" in some countries) measures gold purity on a scale of 24 parts. 24-karat gold is 99.9% pure; 18-karat is 18/24 = 75% pure gold; 14-karat is 14/24 = 58.3% pure; and so on.
Most jewellery sold in the United States is 14K or 10K, offering durability through alloyed metals (copper, silver, zinc, palladium) mixed with the gold. European and Middle Eastern jewellery frequently uses 18K or 22K for a richer color and higher gold content. British hallmarking standards require jewellery to be assayed (tested) and stamped with the karat before sale. Understanding karat purity is essential whether you are buying, selling, or estimating the scrap value of an old piece.
Important: this calculator shows the intrinsic melt value — the worth of the gold content only. Jewellery pieces with craftsmanship, brand value, gemstones, or antique status may sell for considerably more than their melt value. When selling to a pawn shop or scrap gold dealer, expect to receive 70-90% of calculated melt value due to refining costs and dealer margin.
Melt Value = Spot Price ($/ozt) × Weight (ozt) × (Karat ÷ 24)
Values per gram at $2650/ozt spot price:
| Karat | Purity | Hallmark | Value per Gram | Value per Troy Oz | Common Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24K | 99.99% | 999 / 24K | $85.19/g | $2649.74/ozt | Pure yellow gold |
| 22K | 91.67% | 916 / 22K | $78.10/g | $2429.26/ozt | Rich yellow (small Cu alloy) |
| 21K | 87.50% | 875 / 21K | $74.55/g | $2318.75/ozt | Yellow (Gulf region standard) |
| 18K | 75.00% | 750 / 18K | $63.90/g | $1987.50/ozt | Yellow / rose / white |
| 14K | 58.33% | 585 / 14K | $49.70/g | $1545.75/ozt | More durable; popular in US |
| 10K | 41.67% | 417 / 10K | $35.50/g | $1104.26/ozt | Minimum legal "gold" in US |
| 9K | 37.50% | 375 / 9K | $31.95/g | $993.75/ozt | Standard in UK, Ireland, Australia |
Melt values are for educational estimation only. Actual scrap gold payouts vary by dealer and are typically 70-90% of melt value. Jewellery with gemstones, craftsmanship value, or antique status may be worth considerably more or less than melt value. Consult a certified jeweller or appraiser for accurate valuations.
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This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Results are based on standard mathematical formulas. Always verify critical calculations with a qualified professional before making important decisions.